Aggression – Feels Like Punk, Sounds Like Thrash – Album Review

Considering Aggression have released a total of four albums in twenty one years, the fact that Feels Like Punk, Sounds Like Thrash is their second release in just two years indicates that these Canadians are in somewhat of a creative period.

However, knocking albums out is one thing; the big question is, is Feels Like Punk, Sounds Like Thrash any good?

Unfortunately, for band and listener, the answer is a resounding, NO!

Every now and then a decent riff raises its head – such as on “Attack Of The Ice Lizards” or “Once Upon A Time In Hell” – but you will find yourself clinging on to these fleeting moments of satisfaction for dear life and those clamouring for the sounds of 1987’s The Full Treatment will leave disappointed. Frankly, when your song titles (e.g “A River Of Piss and Vinegar” and “The Stench Of Your Mediocre Existence”) are the best things about your album, you know you’re in trouble.

One of the main problems, and it’s a big one, is the lack of quality songs. Aggression huff and puff admirably but don’t ever seem to reach their destination…..despite “Riding With the Living Dead”! Mix that in with an uneven blend of death metal and punk style vocals – sometimes in the same song – and you end up with unintentionally laughable results.

All in all, Feels Like Punk, Sounds Like Thrash comes off as forced, with Aggression lacking both focus, drive and any real sense of identity. Maybe that title should be changed to Feels Like Punk, Sounds Like TRASH?! 3/10